Dames

Reception Hosted by Illinois Dames

Clarke House Museum

July 29, 2018


On Sunday evening, July 29, 2018 Illinois Dames opened historic Clarke House Museum to neighbors attending Chicago Park District’s Summer Movies in the Park series. The event was held in The Chicago Women’s Park & Gardens, which is adjacent to Clarke House. NSCDA-IL was delighted with the opportunity to host an open house reception to enhance the festivities.  Prior to the movie, complimentary tours of Clarke House were provided and Illinois Dames were gracious hosts at a reception featuring a variety of delightful snacks and beverages.   The award-winning movie, Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, followed at dusk and was well attended by Dames, people from the neighborhood and other Jane Austen aficionados!  It was a beautiful and clear evening to be outside under the stars and surrounded by flower filled gardens.

The NSCDA‑IL has generously supported Clarke House since 1977, including the provision of its collection of period furnishings.  Constructed in 1836 for Henry B. Clarke, it is Chicago’s oldest house built when the city received its charter and much of the area was still undeveloped prairie.  The house shows what life was like for a family during the city’s formative years before the Civil War.